6 Common Mistakes You Don't Want To Make At A Job Interview

The job interview is arguably the most important step in your job
search. Once you’ve gotten past applicant tracking system, it’s your time to
truly shine. It’s your opportunity to say, “I am the best
candidate for this
job and here’s why.”

Unfortunately, the job
interview is also a step where many candidates fall
apart. When you enter a situation with a ton of nerves, it’s a
challenge to push past them and make sure all the little details
go according to plan. Plenty of candidates make costly mistakes
during their job interviews and forfeit jobs for which they’re
perfectly qualified

CareerBuilder determined the most common
mistakes candidates make during interviews. Here are the top six
mistakes and how you can avoid making them during your next job
interview:

1. Appearing Disinterested

The majority of hiring managers agree that a candidate’s apparent
lack of interest in the job is the most common error they see in
interviews. There’s a very easy fix to this. To prove to your
interviewer you truly want the job, you need to act like it. Do
research ahead of time on the company and the role. Prepare to
ask lots of questions and share your ideas to show you mean
business. When it comes time for the interview, show your
excitement throughout the entire conversation. Give it your all.

2. Answering a Call or Texting

While this should be an obvious no-no, apparently lots of
candidates are still using cellphones during interviews. It’s
extremely rude to divert your attention from the interview, plus
it’s a major turn-off (see previous point). Avoid the temptation
of texting by turning your phone off when you enter the room.
Leave it in the car if you have to. Just don’t touch it during
the interview.

3. Dressing Inappropriately

For someone who’s never been a professional setting before, it’s
understandable to be unsure ofwhat to wear. What exactly does “professional
attire” mean? When in doubt, it’s best to dress more
conservatively. Wear a business suit or dress. Don’t show too
much skin. Don’t wear anything too flashy. If you aren’t sure
about something you’re wearing, it’s probably not your best
option.

4. Talking Negatively About a Current or Previous
Employer

When you speak about past jobs or internships, it’s essential to
touch only on the positive experiences you had. Tell the
interviewer what you accomplished there and how you can use what
you learned to benefit this company. Stick to stories that
highlight your strengths, not your past employer’s weaknesses.
Talking negatively about your previous boss sends up a red flag,
so just don’t do it.

5. Body Language

Body language is the most important part of in-person
communication. How you present yourself says more about you than
the words coming out of your mouth. That’s why your eye contact,
smile, posture, and handshake all need to be perfect in every job
interview. Sit up straight, give a strong handshake, and look
your interviewer in the eyes. Practice your body language ahead
of time by asking someone to give you honest feedback. It’s easy
to miss something when you don’t even realize you’re doing it
wrong.

6. Being Vague

You need to prove to your interviewer that you are the most
qualified candidate for the job. Being vague in your answers will
guarantee you’ll fail. Provide specific examples of your
accomplishments and how they will benefit this new company. Come
up with a list of stories ahead of time for the mostcommon interview questions, or even the
most outrageous interview questions. Preparation is
key for nailing any question the interviewer throws at you.

These are the biggest mistakes for standard interviews. Other
issues arise when candidates enter the territory of phone
andvideo interviews. Be sure to cover all of your
bases so you know exactly how to succeed in your next job
interview. Avoid these mistakes and you’re already way ahead of
your competition.